Maple-Bacon Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

  • 1 lb macaroni
  • 10 strips bacon, cut into 2.5 cm (1 in) pieces
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup (preferably dark syrup for its robust flavour)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup all purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups 10% cream
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp ground black pepper
  • 3 cups strong cheddar, grated
  • 3 cups gruyere, grated

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 200° C (400° F).
  2. In a saucepan, cook the macaroni in boiling water until tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, fry the bacon until crispy and well-browned. Drain off excess fat, then add the maple syrup and smoked paprika. Mix well and set aside.
  4. In a large ovenproof pan, cook the onion and garlic in the butter over low heat for 3 – 4 minutes.
  5. Add the flour and mix well. Over medium heat, slowly whisk in the milk and cream. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes.
  6. Add the maple-bacon mixture, the macaroni, and half of the two cheeses. Combine well. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top and bake 15 minutes. Finish under the broiler for 4 – 5 minutes or until nicely browned.

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